Franz Claasen, a loyal slave of the…
August 1738 CE
Franz Claasen, a loyal slave of the van Stell family, is deeded the Mary Point Estate for alerting the family to the rebellion and assisting in their escape to St. Thomas.
Franz Claasen's land deed is recorded August 20, 1738 by Jacob van Stell, making Claasen the first 'Free Colored' landowner on St. John.